2021 Yamaha Zuma 125: Yamaha’s Most Rugged 125cc Scooter

The perfect scooter to tackle treacherous Indian roads just got better

Amongst the list of Yamaha products we’d love to see in India is the Zuma 125. The scooter has been updated with some new bits for 2021, making it an even better package. In the US, it retails at $3,699 (Rs 2.70 lakh). So, while it isn’t exactly value-for-money, the new Zuma has plenty going for it.

The most noticeable change for the 2021 Zuma is cosmetic. The scooter looks pretty rugged now, thanks to the brawnier bodywork and a new asymmetrical headlamp. The illumination is still halogen, though, making it look slightly dated in these LED times. At the back, you get a smaller tail light coupled with a new big blacked-out exhaust.

The scooter is offered in two colours: Team Yamaha Blue and Matte Black.

Complementing its refreshed looks are the updated features, including a new digital LCD instrument cluster, a USB type-A port, adjustable headlights, and a luggage rack. Along with this, you get plenty of underseat storage (perfect for fitting in two helmets) and front cubby space.

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The Yamaha scooter is powered by a 125cc liquid-cooled engine with Variable Valve Actuation (new for 2021) for a well-spread power band. Its claimed efficiency is about 43kmpl (1kmpl less than the 2020 version).

The Zuma 125 retains its suspension setup but now rides on 12-inch wheels shod with block pattern rubber, which contributes to its go-anywhere manner. Also new for this year is a combi-brake system that applies both the 245mm front disc and 230mm rear disc brakes.

Sadly, the Zuma will probably never make it to our shores even though it'd make an interesting offering in our scooter space. Till then, we’ll have to suffice with Yamaha’s Ray ZR Street Rally.